Introduction to Meatball Stew
When it comes to cozy meals that wrap you in warmth, meatball stew is hard to beat. This hearty dish combines succulent meatballs, fresh vegetables, and a rich broth, creating an experience that feels like a big hug in a bowl. What makes it especially appealing is its versatility; you can customize the flavors and ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.
Why is Meatball Stew the Ultimate Comfort Food?
Meatball stew ticks all the boxes for comfort food. It brings together savory flavors and a satisfying texture that warms your soul. Studies show that meals rich in protein and fiber, like this stew, can enhance mood and promote feelings of well-being. The process of simmering meatballs and vegetables also allows the delicious flavors to meld together, intensifying the taste and providing that delightful aroma that fills your kitchen.
Imagine coming home after a long day, the smell of meatball stew wafting through the air, beckoning you to the dinner table. Served with a slice of crusty bread or over egg noodles, it’s a nourishing meal that nourishes both body and heart. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients for Meatball Stew
Creating the perfect meatball stew starts with the right ingredients for your meatballs and the hearty stew base. Let’s break it down!
Ingredients for the Meatballs
To achieve tender, flavorful meatballs that will elevate your stew, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 for the best flavor and moisture)
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup bread crumbs
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup whole milk
Using these ingredients ensures a deliciously rich texture and savory taste. For more tips on creating flavorful meatballs, consider checking out this resource on culinary techniques.
Ingredients for the Stew
Now let’s move on to the comforting base of your stew:
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
- 2 large carrots, large dice (about 1 cup)
- 3 celery ribs, large dice (about 1 cup)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme
- 6 cups beef stock
- 2 teaspoons beef bouillon or better than bouillon
- 4 small Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1½-inch pieces
- 1 cup fresh green beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ cup cold water
- Fresh flat-leaf parsley, for serving
These ingredients not only enhance the flavor profile but also create a satisfying, hearty meal. When combined, they make for a delightful meatball stew that’s perfect for any gathering.
Preparing Meatball Stew
Making a hearty meatball stew is an enjoyable process that's perfect for a cozy evening at home. This comforting dish is not only delicious; it’s also a cinch to prepare with the proper steps. Let’s dive into how to create this mouthwatering stew that serves eight and warms the heart.
Prepare the meatballs
To kick things off, you’ll want to gather your ingredients for the meatballs. In a large bowl, combine 1 ½ pounds of ground beef (80/20 is ideal for juiciness) with garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, Italian seasoning, and freshly cracked black pepper. Then, add a large egg, ½ cup of bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, and ¼ cup of whole milk. Mixing with your hands can create the best texture, but a stand mixer works wonders too. Once your mixture is ready, roll it into golf ball-sized meatballs—about 2 tablespoons each—until you have around 24. Pro tip: Dampen your palms with water to ease the rolling process!
Brown the meatballs
Next up, it’s time to brown those delicious meatballs. Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large Dutch oven or stock pot over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. You want a lovely golden crust on each meatball but don’t worry about cooking them through just yet; they’ll finish in the stewing process.
Sauté the vegetables
In the same pot, you might need to deglaze with a splash of beef stock (this brings all the flavorful bits up from the bottom). Add one diced small yellow onion, 2 large diced carrots, and 3 large diced celery ribs. Sauté for about five minutes until the vegetables begin to soften, then enhance the aroma by adding 3 minced garlic cloves. Cook until fragrant, which should only take about a minute.
Combine ingredients in the pot
Now, stir in some tomato paste and fresh thyme, then return the browned meatballs to the pot. Pour in 6 cups of beef stock and add 2 teaspoons of beef bouillon. Bring this delightful mix to a boil over high heat and then reduce it to a gentle simmer.
Simmer the stew
Add in 4 small Yukon Gold potatoes (cut into 1½-inch pieces) and 1 cup of fresh green beans, then cover with a tight-fitting lid. Let the stew simmer for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye out! You’ll want the vegetables tender and your meatballs should register at 160°F.
Thicken the stew
If you’d like to thicken your stew, this is where it gets fun. In a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of cornstarch with ¼ cup of cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the simmering broth and keep stirring over low heat for an additional 5-7 minutes until thickened to your liking.
Serve and enjoy!
With the meatball stew finished, it’s time to dig in! Serve it up hot, garnished with fresh flat-leaf parsley and alongside some crusty bread or buttered egg noodles for a satisfying meal. Nothing beats the feeling of a warm bowl of comfort food!
If you're looking for more cooking tips, consider checking resources like The Kitchn for more inspiration! Happy stewing!
Variations on Meatball Stew
Italian-inspired Meatball Stew
Transform your classic meatball stew into a delightful Italian dish by adding some fresh ingredients and flavors! Incorporate diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, and fresh basil to elevate your stew. Replace the beef with ground turkey for a lighter option. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving for that authentic Italian touch!
Spicy Meatball Stew with Peppers
Keen for a kick? Make a spicy rendition of your meatball stew by adding bell peppers, jalapeños, and a splash of balsamic vinegar. This adds depth and a refreshing tartness. Include chipotle seasoning for smokiness and heat that warms you from the inside out. Trust me, a warm bowl of this spicy stew is perfect for chilly evenings!
Looking for more ideas? Check out Serious Eats for variations on hearty stews!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Meatball Stew
Use Fresh Herbs for the Best Flavor
Nothing elevates the taste of your meatball stew quite like using fresh herbs. Ingredients like thyme and parsley add complexity and vibrancy. Try to use fresh whenever possible; they not only enhance flavor but also bring a beautiful color contrast to your dish. If you’re unsure where to find fresh herbs, local farmers’ markets are a great option!
Tips for Perfect Meatballs
Achieving perfectly tender and flavorful meatballs hinges on a few key points:
- Don’t overmix: Mixing just until combined keeps them tender.
- Moisture matters: Incorporating ingredients like bread crumbs and milk helps retain moisture during cooking.
- Rolling technique: Dampen your hands with water to make rolling easier and to prevent sticking.
By following these tips, your meatball stew will be a comforting hit!
Serving Suggestions for Meatball Stew
Pairing with Crusty Bread
There’s nothing quite like a robust meatball stew alongside a slice of warm, crusty bread. The bread isn't just a side; it’s the perfect tool for soaking up that rich, savory broth. Consider artisanal sourdough or even a simple baguette for a delightful contrast in textures. Feel free to spread a bit of butter or garlic herb oil on top for an extra flavor boost.
Side Dishes That Complement the Stew
To round out your meal, think about serving a vibrant salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette. Or, whip up some creamy mashed potatoes for a classic touch. For something lighter, roasted vegetables are an excellent choice, making your table look as good as it tastes.
Whether you're sharing with friends or enjoying a cozy night in, these pairings will elevate your meatball stew experience.
Time Breakdown for Meatball Stew
Preparation Time
Getting ready for your meatball stew is a breeze! With only 20 minutes needed for preparation, you’ll have everything prepped in no time.
Cooking Time
Once the prep work is done, cooking takes about 50 minutes. This includes browning the meatballs and letting the stew simmer to perfection!
Total Time
In total, you’ll spend about 1 hour and 10 minutes transforming fresh ingredients into a comforting pot of meatball stew. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home!
For more tips on meal prep, check out meal prep strategies that can save you even more time in the kitchen!
Nutritional Facts for Meatball Stew
Understanding the nutritional profile of your dishes can be eye-opening and ensure you're enjoying your meals mindfully. Let’s break down the key facts for our meatball stew, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Calories
Each serving of this hearty meatball stew contains approximately 380 calories, making it a satisfying option that fuels your day without going overboard.
Protein
Packed with protein, each serving provides about 24 grams. This boost from the ground beef not only contributes to muscle repair but keeps you feeling full longer!
Sodium
While delicious, the stew does have a sodium content of roughly 800 mg per serving. If you're watching your salt intake, consider using low-sodium beef stock and omitting added salt.
For more on healthy eating habits, check out resources from the American Heart Association and USDA Nutritional Guidelines. Making informed choices can elevate your cooking experience!
FAQs about Meatball Stew
How can I make my meatballs juicier?
To achieve juicy meatballs in your meatball stew, consider adding moisture-rich ingredients. Instead of just breadcrumbs, you could use soaked bread or even grated zucchini. Don't skimp on the whole milk in the recipe, as it adds richness. If you prefer, mixing in some grated cheese can also elevate the moisture and flavor. Lastly, be careful not to overmix your meatball mixture—handle it gently for a tender result!
What can I substitute if I don’t have beef stock?
If you're out of beef stock, don’t worry! You can easily swap it for chicken stock or vegetable broth. Each imparts a slightly different flavor, but they'll still make a delicious base for the stew. For an extra depth of flavor, consider using a blend of water and better than bouillon, which works well in a pinch.
Can I make meatball stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make meatball stew in a slow cooker, just brown the meatballs and sauté the vegetables as described in the recipe. Then transfer everything, including the beef stock and seasonings, into the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The result will be a delightfully simmered and flavorful stew!
For more tips on slow cooking, check out Slow Cooker Central.
Conclusion on Meatball Stew
In conclusion, meatball stew is not only a hearty, comforting dish but also a versatile one that can easily be customized with your favorite ingredients. Whether served with crusty bread or buttery noodles, it’s sure to impress. So gather your friends or family, and enjoy this satisfying meal together!
Meatball Stew
Equipment
- large bowl
- Stand Mixer
- Dutch oven
- heavy-bottom stock pot
- small bowl
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1.5 pounds ground beef 80/20
- 0.75 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.75 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- 1.5 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 0.25 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 0.5 cup bread crumbs
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 0.25 cup whole milk
For the Stew
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced about 1 cup
- 2 large carrots, large dice about 1 cup
- 3 ribs celery, large dice about 1 cup
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme
- 6 cups beef stock
- 2 teaspoons beef bouillon or better than bouillon
- 4 Small Yukon Gold potatoes, cut in 1½-inch pieces
- 1 cup fresh green beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 0.25 cup cold water
- to taste Flat leaf parsley for serving
Instructions
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, Italian seasoning, pepper, egg, bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce and whole milk until fully combined.
- Form golf ball-sized meatballs—about 2 tablespoons each—and place them on a plate, about 24 total.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottom stock pot over medium high heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides but don’t worry about cooking them through.
- Deglaze the pan with a few tablespoons of beef stock if necessary. To the same pot add the remaining tablespoon olive oil along with the onions, celery and carrots. Cook until vegetables are beginning to soften, about 5 minutes.
- Add in the tomato paste and thyme, stirring to combine. Add the meatballs back to the pot along with the beef stock and the beef bouillon. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer.
- Add in potatoes and green beans, cover with a tight fitting lid and simmer for 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender and meatballs register 160°F.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water together until smooth. Add the cornstarch slurry to the stew broth and stir over low heat until stew has thickened, about 5-7 more minutes.
- Serve the stew sprinkled with parsley with some good crusty bread or buttered egg noodles.
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